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Macvilho

Macvilho is an artisan group of seven women between the ages of 18 and 50 from the Mexican state of Chiapas. The women raise their own sheep and harvest the wool to make clothing, textiles, and decorative accents. The women work without machinery, weaving textiles by hand using traditional Mayan techniques. Selling their goods to a global audience gives the women more work, allowing them to lead better lives supplemented by the additional income.
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THE TECHNIQUE

The women of Macvilho handcraft colorful pom poms from plush, hand-dyed yarn. The women raise their own sheep and harvest the wool, then spin it into yarn using traditional Mayan techniques. Once a year, they shear the animals, then clean and sort the fleece by length and texture. The wool is washed and dried, then the artisans create vibrant colors with natural dyes. The artisans use this soft yarn to create vibrant pom-poms, then string them together to form a beautiful decorative accent. All materials that are not grown by the women are locally sourced from San Cristobal de las Casas, the cultural center of the Chiapas region of Mexico. Seven women work to make the pom pom garlands, which can take up to 3 days to create, depending on the size.
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Mexico

The culture of Mexico is one of the richest and most ancient in the western hemisphere. Its cultural, geographical and historical wealth is palpable and it can be appreciated through its architecture and pyramids, and traditions. Most of Mexico’s art is still created through processes that have not changed since the Aztec civilization. Clay pottery, vibrant designs, embroidered cotton garments, wool shawls and outer garments with angular designs and colorful baskets and rugs are some of the common items associated with Mexican art.Learn More

Fair Trade Products

Fair Trade is an approach to international trade centered around equitable partnerships, transparency and respect. It seeks to empower marginalized producers by providing them safe working conditions, fair pay, and a means to establish a sustainable business free from exploitation. As a member of the Fair Trade Federation, we are committed to the Fair Trade principles. Learn More